Mariana Alejandra Spitzberg, B.S.; Summa Cum Laude

Hello my blog reading friends. It is with great pleasure that I announce to you that Mari has graduated college. Here is a brief photo recap of the day. Stay tuned for a more detailed account.

What's Next For Elementary School Instrumental Teachers ?

HMS Pinafore, Carmen Singing + Empanadas

I had the opportunity this past week to play drum set for UPES's production of HMS Pinafore. It was a lot of fun. All the musicians were amazing. 2 play w/ the Presidents Own Marine Band, the Cellist is a professional freelancer, and the French Horn player just received his DMA in French Horn performance. We had a lot of fun. Below is a picture of my set-up and the entire orchestra minus the page turner who was one of my cello students at the elementary school.

The night Mauricio came over to rehearse, he played some of Carmen's favorite songs ... she sang along as he played ...

This is one reason why I love having Carmen stay with us:

As they say in India ... tata for now.

Brother Hangs w/ Michelle Obama + New Gig

My brother hosted Michelle Obama @ The Sitar Arts Center. This was the second time he hung out w/ the First Lady. Here she is painting w/ one of the students that participate at the Center.

Ed got his paint brush groove on too.

Here is a quote of what she said:
"So Lynsey and Ed, you guys are doing some phenomenal work. It was wonderful to have you at the White House for the Coming Up Taller Awards, and all my kids who were there, as well. It’s good for me to get out here and see what you’re doing."

On some other news ... I have my first gig since February 28th, 2009. I am playing w/ Mauricio Velarde at La Tasca in the Rockville Town Center. If you are available June 1 from 7 - 9 come on by. Here is the set-up I used at today's rehearsal:


Have a great day.

Mari is Almost Done with School

Today Mari, Carmen + I attended the USG graduation ceremony. Mari's official graduation is Thursday May 20th @ 10 AM in Towson. But tonight's ceremony was great. Leon Harris was the featured speaker and here is my favorite quote:

"A school is a building that has four walls with tomorrow inside."

Here is Carmen and Mari before we went in for the great food.

Have a great day!